Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the rectum and anus, causing discomforting symptoms like itching, pain, and swelling. Hydrocortisone cream is a topical corticosteroid medication used to alleviate these local symptoms. It works by reducing the body’s inflammatory response, which lessens redness and irritation in the affected tissue. This compound decreases swelling and provides temporary relief from associated burning and itching.
Essential Preparation Steps
Before applying the medication, ensure the anal area is clean and dry to maximize the cream’s effectiveness. Begin by gently washing the affected area using only mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as this can worsen irritation and damage sensitive tissue. After washing, pat the skin dry with a soft cloth or clean towel instead of rubbing. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the medication.
Applying Hydrocortisone Cream Correctly
The application method depends on whether the hemorrhoids are external or internal. For external hemorrhoids causing symptoms around the anal opening, apply the cream directly with a clean finger. Squeeze a small amount, roughly the size of a pea, onto your fingertip. This amount is sufficient to cover the localized area of swelling and irritation. Gently rub the thin film of cream over the affected external skin until it is absorbed.
Some products are intended for internal use and include a specialized applicator tip to deliver the medication inside the anal canal. If using an applicator, do not use your finger to push the cream into the rectum, as this is unsanitary and ineffective. To prepare, attach the applicator to the cream tube and squeeze the tube until the medication fills the chamber. Once filled, insert the applicator tip gently, only about one-half to one inch (1.5 to 2.5 centimeters) into the anus.
After gentle insertion, dispense the cream by squeezing the tube or plunger mechanism as directed by instructions. The goal is to cover the affected internal tissue without inserting the applicator too deeply. Carefully remove the applicator after dispensing the cream; if reusable, clean it thoroughly before storing. Single-use applicators should be discarded immediately. Wash your hands again immediately after the entire application process is complete.
Safe Usage Duration and Frequency
The application frequency is generally limited to a maximum of three to four times per day, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Optimal timing for application is often after a bowel movement or bathing, once the area has been gently cleansed and dried. Maintain a consistent schedule throughout the treatment period to manage symptoms effectively. Never use more of the medication or apply it more often than the instructions recommend.
A short treatment lifespan is necessary because hydrocortisone is a steroid medication. Over-the-counter strengths are typically not intended for continuous use for more than seven consecutive days. Prolonged use beyond this period can lead to localized adverse effects, such as the thinning of the perianal skin, known as atrophy. Long-term or excessive use also carries a risk of systemic absorption, where the steroid is absorbed into the bloodstream. If symptoms do not improve within seven days, or if they worsen, stop using the cream and consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Recognizing Side Effects and Proper Storage
While generally tolerated for short-term use, hydrocortisone cream can sometimes cause minor localized reactions at the application site. These common effects may include a temporary, mild sensation of burning, irritation, or dryness. If these symptoms are severe or persist, it may indicate a sensitivity to the medication, and use should be discontinued. More serious signs, such as a severe rash, hives, or swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, signal a rare allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
The medication should be stored correctly to ensure its potency and safety. Hydrocortisone cream is best kept at room temperature, typically between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 25 degrees Celsius). Protect the product from extreme heat, freezing, and excessive moisture. Always keep the tube tightly closed and store it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Any unused or expired medication should be disposed of properly according to local regulations.